Hoyer: Democrats Ready to Work for Americans While GOP Leaves for Recess

“Our Republican colleagues are leaving without getting their work done. I say ‘their’ work done. Without getting ‘our’ work done. The work of the American people. Comprehensive jobs bills, middle-class tax cuts have not been extended, farmers are left on their own to face the worst drought in decades… a Farm bill reported out of the Republican committee lays unconsidered by this Floor. Reported out of their committee from their majority and they haven't brought it to the Floor while farmers remain in trouble. We've not re-authorized the Violence Against Women Act, and we have not passed a postal reform bill. I am glad to take this special order, Mr. Speaker, to say to the American people that we're prepared to stay. We're prepared to stay and work on these bills.”

“Two years ago, as the previous election approached, Republicans unveiled a long list of pledges. Their ‘Pledge to America reads, and I quote, ‘A plan to create jobs, end economic uncertainty and make America more competitive, must be the first urgent domestic priority of our government. So first we offer a plan to get people working again.’ That's what they said... 21 months later, Republicans have not offered a comprehensive plan to create jobs and boost competitiveness, nor have they allowed Democrats to bring [up] major items on our Make it in America [plan]... When President Obama proposed his plan, the American Jobs Act - which economists say would have expanded [the economy] by a million or million and a half jobs - Republicans blocked it outright - not brought to the Floor, not given the vote. Instead of making jobs their priority, it seems to have been last on their to-do list at a time when it remains the first concern for millions and millions of Americans and for our side of the aisle.”